Football Psychology

     So this week saw the end to the Patriot’s season. I know for a fact that I am not the only one around here who’s pissed off. This was supposed to the year; after everything that happened to the Patriots organization, and especially Tom Brady, in the past 12 months, the time was absolutely perfect to show up the NFL and win the fifth ring. This year more than ever it felt like us against the world, the timing felt right. Unfortunately, that is not going to happen. I won’t say much about the game itself, but I will say I think even myself and a few friends could’ve gotten to Tom Brady with the horrific performance we witnessed from the offensive line. Anyways, like always, the people on Boston sports radio stations had plenty to talk about this week. There are always conflicting opinions and a few crazy caller who present some hilariously ridiculous theories and ideas. But I have never heard a caller being called out on using defense mechanisms-until this week.

      I think it was Tuesday, some random Boston sports fan called in to add his two cents. While most people let all their anger out on the phone and scream about how the refs were unfair and that the NFL will never let the Patriots win again, this man was rather composed. He said that initially he was incredibly upset over the loss. But now that it’s over, he realizes it’s ok we lost because the Panthers would have killed us, just like they are going to destroy the Broncos in two weeks’ time. And without missing a beat, the host on the show called out his use of the defense mechanism of rationalization. I was stunned. He specifically said “defense mechanism” and “rationalization”. It was very unexpected and I was certainly impressed.

     Defense mechanisms are used to cope with subconscious trauma or conflict, and any time the Patriots loose is definitely a traumatic event. Everybody deals with it in their own way, but in the spirit of good ol’ Bill Belichick, we’re on to next season!!